In respiratory therapy, how is "lung compliance" defined?

Lung compliance refers specifically to the ability of the lungs to expand when subjected to pressure changes, making "the ability of lungs to expand" the correct definition. This concept is essential in respiratory therapy because it reflects how easily the lungs can be inflated. High lung compliance indicates that the lungs can expand easily, which is beneficial for effective ventilation, while low compliance may signify stiff or damaged lung tissue, resulting in difficulty during the breathing process.

Lung compliance is measured as the change in lung volume divided by the change in pressure applied during inhalation. A comprehensive understanding of lung compliance is critical for healthcare providers to assess respiratory function and determine appropriate interventions for patients with breathing difficulties. Understanding lung compliance aids in managing conditions such as emphysema, where compliance increases, or pulmonary fibrosis, where compliance decreases.